Minivans are not having the best of times right now, as buyers have found a sexier alternative for carrying people and luggage with comfort in SUVs. Nevertheless, three years ago, Chrysler rolled out the Pacifica and even gave it a plug-in hybrid powertrain option as well.
FCA was apparently so satisfied with the end product that it has already approved a follow-up – and, according to Allpar, which cites undisclosed sources, an official announcement “should be coming in the next month or two”.
Since the alleged follow-up to the Pacifica has yet to be confirmed, no technical details are available yet. However, the online publication speculates that Chrysler’s parent company has several powertrain solutions. Electrification, apparently, is still a must, not only for the minivan, but other future products, too.
Also Watch: Consumer Reports Reviews All-New Chrysler Pacifica
We contacted FCA for an official statement, though all we got back was the “we do not comment on speculation of future products” line that we kind of expected. Well, at least we tried…
The notion of an all-wheel drive version of the people carrier seems to be on the table, too. The model was hinted again in a report released last month, and if it turns out to be correct, then the AWD Pacifica should hit production in the second quarter of next year.
Given that the Pacifica Hybrid is already very well received, the addition of all-wheel drive would put it against against AWD versions of the Toyota Sienna, for example, which already has that options. It should also cater to the needs those living in cold climate states, in Canada and perhaps other markets as well.
